Alberta Innovates — International Technology Partnership (ITP) Program

Who is eligible?

This program supports Alberta-based small to medium enterprises (SMEs) that have defined projects aiming at commercialization or operational pilot tests. Eligible applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for funding under the International Technology Partnership Program.

• Alberta-based small to medium enterprises with fewer than 500 full-time employees and less than $50,000,000 in annual gross revenue.
• Projects that contribute to bringing a technology closer to commercialization through further development, testing, or pilot deployment in an operational environment.
• Identified participation of at least one international project partner before applying to the program.
• Able to complete the project within an 18-month timeframe and expect to make their first sale within two years post-project completion.
• Applicants' contributions will be matched by the program, with the international partner also matching contributions up to a maximum combined investment of $750,000.

Who is not eligible

There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for this grant:

• Companies with more than 500 full-time employees or with over $50,000,000 in annual gross revenue

Eligible expenses

The International Technology Partnership Program supports Alberta-based Small to Medium Enterprises in collaborations aimed at advancing technologies towards commercialization. Eligible activities are focused on technology development and piloting necessary for market readiness.

• Developing and testing technology in collaboration with an International Project Partner.
• Piloting technologies in operational or test environments to move towards commercialization.
• Undertaking early to late-stage pilot activities to validate product value.
• Building long-term business partnerships to extend market access.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is specifically targeted at Alberta-based companies, ensuring that local enterprises gain support to pursue international technology partnerships. The eligible geographical area has been outlined to focus on bolstering Alberta's economic and technological advancements.

• Companies incorporated in Alberta.
• Businesses registered extra-provincially but with significant operations in Alberta.
• Entities demonstrating a substantial operational presence and Alberta ownership.

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria to ensure alignment with the program's objectives and intended outcomes.

• Technology readiness level and product viability.
• Business opportunity and potential market impact.
• Management team capabilities and experience.
• Market conditions and competitive advantage.
• Technical feasibility and export potential.
• Overall potential size of return to Alberta.

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

• Step 1: Identify Project and Partner
  • Identify a project suitable for the International Technology Partnership Program.
  • Find a suitable International Technology Partner for collaboration.
• Step 2: Connect with a Technology Development Advisor
  • Contact a Technology Development Advisor (TDA) at Alberta Innovates.
  • Have your project scope assessed to ensure it meets the program requirements.
• Step 3: Registration
  • Register on the Alberta Innovates Application Portal.
• Step 4: Application Submission
  • Complete the online application form on the Portal.
  • Include the filled and signed Alberta Innovates Letter of Interest from the International Project Partner.
  • Submit your application through the Portal.
• Step 5: Execute Agreement
  • If successful, execute an agreement with Alberta Innovates.
  • Detail milestone progress and budget reporting in the agreement.
  • Agree on a timeline for outcome reports during and post-project.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The program uses a matching fund model whereby the contributions by Alberta Innovates, the applicant, and the international partner together can reach a combined potential funding of $750,000.
• The program is designed to de-risk the commercialization process by providing funds and coaching.
• Successful applicants are tracked for up to five years post-project to evaluate the benefit to Alberta.
• Applicants are required to work in conjunction with a Technology Development Advisor who provides guidance and coaching.
• Alberta Innovates operates a milestone-based payment model where progress reports are required for subsequent funding disbursements.
• The contribution from the International Project Partner can be a combination of cash and in-kind contributions, with in-kind allowed up to 100%.
• Funding decisions are solely at Alberta Innovates' discretion, and meeting eligibility does not guarantee funding.
• The program aims to create long-term business partnerships that expand market access and increase global competitiveness.
• Only costs incurred after the Investment Agreement signing are eligible for funding.